Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture for topping.

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, applesauce, yogurt, and vanilla until well combined.

Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently just until combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in nuts or dried fruit if using.

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with the reserved sugar topping.

Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack before removing from the pan. Allow to cool completely before slicing.